Gateway to the Wild

Plan Your Visit to
Allan Brooks Nature Centre

Explore scenic grasslands, interactive exhibits, and panoramic views of
the Okanagan — all in one unique natural space.

Admission by donation •  Open seasonally  •  Experiences for all ages

A Sanctuary Above the Valley

Perched atop the commonage, our centre offers more than just a walk in the park. It’s a place to experience the unique grasslands and ecosystems of the North Okanagan. Here, the air is clearer, the views are wider, and every visit is an invitation to reconnect with nature through our interactive exhibits and scenic trail systems.

The Journey

What Your Visit Might Look Like

Arrive & Take in the View

Park in our accessible lot and immediately witness 360-degree views of the Okanagan lakes.

Walk the Grasslands Trail

A gentle loop through rare bunchgrass ecosystems, home to native birds and butterflies.

Explore the Centre

Dive deep into local ecology through our interactive indoor exhibits and discovery rooms.

Stay Longer

Check our calendar for guided walks, workshops, or seasonal nature events.

The Great Outdoors

Grasslands Trail

Wander through one of Canada’s most endangered ecosystems. Our trails are designed for all levels, offering a meditative pace through golden fescue and bluebunch wheatgrass.

Interactive Learning

Interpretive Centre

A hub for curious minds. Our main centre houses rotating exhibits that explain the geological and natural history of the Okanagan valley through hands-on discovery.

Panoramic Views

Witness the breathtaking convergence of Okanagan, Kalamalka,
and Swan Lakes from our signature viewpoints.

Explore Inside the Nature Centre

Habitat Room

Meet the residents of the Okanagan through life-like dioramas and taxidermy specimens.

Discovery Room

A tactile space for children and adults to handle fossils, feathers, and local artifacts.

Nature Shop

Take a piece of nature home. Curated local crafts, books, and sustainable gear.

Availability

When to Visit

Operating Season

April – October

Daily Hours

9:00 AM – 3:30 PM Tuesday-Saturday

* Note: Hours may vary during holiday weekends or special events. Please check our calendar before traveling.

Practical Info

Visit Duration

Plan for 1–2 hours to fully enjoy the trails and indoor exhibits without rushing.

What to Bring

Good to Know

Admission by Donation

Ample Parking

Easy Trails

No Pets

Stay on Trails

Sun Exposure

Visitor Rules & Guidelines

To help protect the sensitive grassland ecosystem and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors, we ask that the following guidelines be respected during your visit.

Children & Supervision

Children must remain under adult supervision at all times. Please help us protect the site by ensuring children do not climb on fences, railings, rocks, exhibits, or planted areas.

Trail Use

The trails are for pedestrian use only. Please stay on designated pathways and be considerate of other visitors while exploring the grounds. The main trail is wheelchair accessible from the southern parking lot.

Respect the Environment

Please help us protect this sensitive ecosystem by leaving all plants, animals, rocks, and natural materials where you find them. We encourage visitors to explore, observe, photograph, and enjoy nature respectfully while helping preserve the habitat for future generations.

In this environment, we are all visitors and guests within the home of local wildlife.

No Pets

Dogs and other pets are not permitted anywhere on the Nature Centre grounds. Domestic animals can disturb sensitive wildlife and habitats, including species at risk that call the grasslands home.

No Smoking or Vaping

The Allan Brooks Nature Centre is a non-smoking and non-vaping site at all times. Due to extreme wildfire risk within the dry grassland environment, smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited anywhere on the property.

Waste & Recycling

Please place all garbage and recycling in the designated receptacles located throughout the site.

Follow Staff Guidance

Our Nature Interpreters and staff are trained to ensure visitor safety and protect the environment. Please follow all staff instructions regarding wildlife, trails, exhibits, weather conditions, and site safety.

Leave No Trace

Take only photographs, leave only footprints.